Pastel De Papa Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes  

   Prep Time: 40 minutes

Pastel De Papa Ingredients

Pastel De Papa Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and chunked Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes.
  2. While the potatoes cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Add the red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground nutmeg. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
  6. Add the beef stock, raisins, and sliced green olives to the skillet. Simmer the mixture until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  7. Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return to the pot. Add the unsalted butter and warmed whole milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  9. Stir the chopped hard-boiled eggs and fresh parsley into the cooled beef mixture.
  10. Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  11. Spoon the beef filling evenly over the mashed potato layer, spreading it out to the edges.
  12. Top the beef filling with the remaining mashed potatoes, spreading and smoothing the surface to seal the filling completely.
  13. In a small bowl, whisk the two egg yolks. Brush the top layer of mashed potatoes with the egg yolk to create a golden crust.
  14. Bake the assembled pastel de papa in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
  15. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving, allowing the layers to set.

Estimated Calories: 350, Servings: 6

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Healthy Pastel De Papa Tips

If you love a delicious, authentic Pastel De Papa recipe but want to boost its health benefits, there are plenty of easy ways to do it without sacrificing that tasty, homemade flavor. Start by swapping out some of the traditional ingredients for healthier options-think lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and add extra veggies like carrots, peas, or spinach for more vitamins and fiber. Using olive oil instead of butter in your mashed potatoes is a simple trick to cut down on saturated fat while keeping the texture perfect. For a quick and healthy twist, try using sweet potatoes for the topping; they're packed with nutrients and add a unique, delicious flavor to your best Argentinian Pastel De Papa.
Don't forget, the best health tips for this recipe include reducing the amount of cheese or choosing a lower-fat version, and seasoning with fresh herbs instead of extra salt. These easy changes make your homemade dish lighter but still authentic and tasty. If you're wondering how to make your favorite comfort food healthier, these simple swaps will help you create the perfect, guilt-free meal. With the right ingredients and a few smart tips, you can enjoy a quick, healthy, and delicious Pastel De Papa recipe that's just as satisfying as the classic!

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, the best way to keep your Pastel De Papa fresh is to use an airtight container and pop it in the fridge as soon as it cools to room temperature. This easy step helps lock in moisture and keeps the dish tasting delicious for days. If you want a quick meal later, you can even portion it out before storing, making it fast and convenient to grab a serving whenever you need. For those who love meal prepping, this recipe is a great candidate because it holds up well and stays healthy when stored properly.Shelf life is another important factor to consider with Pastel De Papa. Generally, you can expect this dish to last about three to four days in the refrigerator, which is good news for anyone looking for a make ahead meal. If you want to keep it for longer, freezing is a great option. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and preserve that delicious flavor. When stored correctly, you can enjoy this recipe for up to two months, making it a fast and easy solution for busy weeks.Reheating is a breeze and helps retain the best flavor and texture. For a quick meal, the microwave works well, but if you want to keep the top crispy and the layers tasting great, the oven is your friend. Simply cover with foil and heat at a moderate temperature until warmed through. This method ensures the dish stays healthy and delicious, just like when it was first made. With these tips, you can enjoy your Pastel De Papa recipe anytime, knowing it will taste just as good as the day you made it.

About Pastel De Papa Recipe

If you've ever doubted that a casserole could change your life, let me introduce you to the best Pastel De Papa recipe from Argentina. I used to think "meat and potatoes" was just a bland dinner fallback, but this authentic, homemade dish proved me wrong. The combination of simple ingredients-ground beef, mashed potatoes, onions, and a few secret touches-transforms into something so delicious, you'll wonder why you ever settled for plain old shepherd's pie. The first time I tried this easy and quick recipe, I was skeptical, but now I'm a true believer in the power of a tasty, well-layered casserole.
What makes this the best and most authentic Pastel De Papa recipe? It's all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The savory beef filling, spiced just right, gets topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. The result is a delicious, comforting meal that's both easy to make and impressive enough for guests. If you're wondering how to make this Argentinian classic, don't worry-the steps are simple, and I've got some tips to make sure your homemade version turns out just right. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.
For anyone searching for a quick, easy, and tasty dinner idea, this Pastel De Papa recipe is a game-changer. The ingredients are straightforward, and with a few tips, you'll have the perfect casserole every time. Don't be afraid to experiment with your own twists-maybe a sprinkle of cheese or a dash of spice. Once you see how delicious and satisfying this dish is, you'll understand why it's a staple in Argentinian homes. So, if you're still on the fence, give this recipe a try. You might just become a Pastel De Papa convert like me!

Pastel De Papa Story

The first time I made this dish, it was for my grandmother. She had always been the best cook in our family, and I wanted to impress her with something special. I remember feeling nervous as I followed the recipe, hoping it would turn out as good as hers. When she took her first bite, she smiled and told me it was delicious. That moment meant the world to me, and it was the start of many afternoons spent cooking together, sharing stories, and laughing in the kitchen.
A few years later, I found myself making this dish for a quick dinner date at home. I wanted something easy but still impressive, and this recipe was the perfect choice. My date was surprised at how fast I managed to put everything together, and we ended up having a great evening. We talked for hours, and the meal became a conversation starter about our favorite family traditions and comfort foods. It was amazing how something so simple could help us connect on a deeper level.
Recently, I shared this dish with a new neighbor who had just moved in. She mentioned she was looking for healthy meal ideas, so I invited her over. We cooked together, and it was a good way to break the ice. She loved how easy the recipe was to follow and how delicious the final result tasted. By the end of the night, we were already planning our next cooking session. It is funny how food can turn strangers into friends so quickly.

Pastel De Papa History

Pastel de Papa has its roots in the rich cultural tapestry of Argentina, where European influences blend seamlessly with local traditions. This dish is a great example of how Argentinian cuisine has adapted recipes brought by immigrants, especially from Spain and Italy, to create something uniquely their own. The best part about this cultural fusion is how it reflects the diversity of Argentina itself, making Pastel de Papa a delicious symbol of unity and shared heritage. It is a good reminder of how food can bring people together and tell the story of a nation.
Over time, the recipe for Pastel de Papa has evolved in interesting ways. Originally, it was a simple, hearty meal meant to be easy and fast to prepare, perfect for busy families. As tastes changed and new ingredients became available, cooks started experimenting with different fillings and toppings, making the dish even more delicious and healthy. Today, you can find both traditional and modern versions, each offering a unique twist while still honoring the original spirit of the recipe.
One of the most fascinating things about Pastel de Papa is how it has inspired regional adaptations across Argentina. In some areas, people add local spices or swap out ingredients to suit what is fresh and available, making it a good example of how recipes can be both flexible and rooted in tradition. These regional takes keep the dish exciting and ensure that everyone can enjoy a version that feels just right for them. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a great dish to share with friends, there is always a way to make Pastel de Papa your own.